FDA Learn has launched a new series of ‘Switch off sessions’, offering an introduction to hobbies and activities that may be of interest to members.
 
We know that with many people working from home, or simply spending more time at home due to COVID-19 restrictions across the four nations of the UK, it can be hard to switch off, so these sessions are designed to take your mind away from the world of work and potentially try your hand at something a little bit different.

If you would be interested in joining any of the sessions below, drop us a line at fdalearn@fda.org.uk and we will send you the password to reserve your free place:

*Please note that our webinar platform, Crowdcast, works best in Chrome and Firefox browsers*

An introduction to moths, Wednesday 4 November 17.30pm

Moths are the much unloved cousins of the more popular butterflies. FDA member and amateur lepidopterist David Howdon will give you a brief introduction to these insects, show you that they are more fascinating and beautiful than you think, how they can be found and what you can do to conserve these important insects.
 
David is an economist who currently works in DWP and is an active member of the DWP branch committee and former member of FDA’s Executive Committee. In his spare time he monitors and surveys lepidoptera (moths and butterflies) and is chair of the Selborne Society which runs Perivale Wood, one of the UK’s oldest nature reserves.

 

Gardening hints and tips, Monday 23 November 12.00pm

This short webinar, delivered by Jane Hamel, is for all of us who love to work with nature, be that a window box, or a small or large garden space. Jane has been gardening professionally for 17 years, and has an RHS qualification in horticulture. She has always worked organically, believing this is best for the planet and wildlife and that beautiful gardens can be created in tandem with nature. Jane is also a qualified garden designer who has worked on domestic gardens from small city front gardens to reasonably large rural gardens, and has a passion for plants, gardening and designing workable but beautiful spaces. This basic session will look at hints and tips suitable for all levels of knowledge and experience.

 

Birdwatching, Monday 30 November 12.00pm

A brief introduction for those who want to be able to identify those birds who they see in their garden and parks or on their walks by the sea. For those approaching retirement and anyone working from home the view outside the window is better than a Netflix box set. There’s a cast of regulars, exotic guest appearances and several easy to miss cameo roles. No knowledge required, just curiosity about the world around us.
 
This session will be led by Ruth Lyons, formerly of the Business Department, now retired, RSPB member and leading birdwatching for beginners groups in her local area.